Speedometers for bicycles: what are, how to choose and install?

Cycling is actively developing, and the popularity of bicycles is growing so rapidly that the thought creeps in: the cars are about to recede into the background. For cyclists, a huge number of useful gadgets are created, among which the speedometer is in the first place.

The speedometer for a bicycle is a measuring device that determines the speed of movement and the distance traveled. This information is useful for many cyclists, especially for athletes.

Bicycle meter provides a person the ability to improve the physical abilities of your body, evenly increase the load on the muscles and perfect the main indicators.

The bicycle market offers a huge selection of speedometers. Despite the great variety of these devices, all models are divided into three large groups.

Mechanical device becoming less popular, but still he is still finding his consumer. Typically, these models are mounted on road-type bicycles. For mountain views, mechanics are contraindicated because they quickly fail due to dirt and sand that get on the device. Such speedometers consist of only three parts:

• housing;
• cable;
• drive wheel.

Dial speedometer It is important to establish that there is close contact between the tire and the wheel. Mechanics has a number of disadvantages that cause a decrease in its popularity:

• the impossibility of functioning with deformed wheels;
• the inability to save information for its further analysis;
• in case of improper installation, constant braking is observed;
• vulnerability to pollution;
• the need for periodic lubrication.

Positive aspects are also characteristic of such devices:

• high reliability;
• affordable cost;
• autonomous work, which does not require the use of third-party power sources.

Electronic speedometer is the choice of many cyclists. Its design is more complicated than that of mechanical models, it consists of the following parts:

• the main unit is mounted on the steering gear;
• connections;
• the cadence sensor is fixed on the connecting rod;
• speed is located on the frame;
• The wheel sensor is mounted on a fork.

Electronic speedometers differ in the number of functions, which is a determining factor in the formation of value. The basic set of functions includes the definition of the following indicators:

• current time;
• the duration of the trip;
• mileage;
• speed (current, average, maximum possible);
• pressure.

Electronic models are becoming more accessible than many cyclists use. They are easy to install and use, so they are great for novice users. Disadvantages are also present here:

• limited number of functions;
• high degree of wire wear;
• stable operation requires reliable fixation;
• the need for periodic replacement of power supplies.

Wireless bike computer is the last word in technology that avid cyclists use. A radio channel is used to transmit the signal - this is the main feature of such devices. As batteries, batteries or built-in batteries can be used, but such models are much more expensive.

Such devices have a wide range of advantages:

• definition of three indicators of speed;
• built-in clock, stopwatch;
• high level of moisture protection;
• synchronization with a computer;
• altimeter and cadence;
• backlight;
• pulse determination;
• lap time calculation;
• high strength, reliability and durability;
• accuracy;
• saving information about previous workouts;
• lack of need for greasing.

Wireless bike computers are not ideal, their disadvantages are also characteristic:

• the need to replace batteries;
• the presence of GPS is characteristic only for expensive models;
• electromagnetic interference (ignition coil, telephone, power lines) may interfere with the normal operation of the measuring device;
• high cost compared to other types of devices.

You can not buy the first speedometer that you like, which you liked in appearance or attractive value.

Our rules will help you make the right choice, which you will not have to regret in the future.

1. Carefully consider the set of desired features. It makes no sense to overpay for options that are not useful. At the same time, it’s convenient when everything you need is in one device.
2. Sports trips, high-speed mode, riding in difficult conditions - all this requires the selection of an advanced model with excellent reliability and wide functionality.
3. Speedometers for bicycles should have a sturdy case with high protection against moisture.
4. The backlight must be present in the models that will be used at night.
5. The external interface should be convenient.This indicator is selected in accordance with each person’s personal preferences.

Almost every speedometer has its own installation rules, but in general, all practical manuals are similar to each other.

The most difficult thing is to complete the installation of the bike computer, because we took this process as a basis - on its example we will consider the main stages of such work.

You need to start with mounting the mounting pad. It looks like a panel with two contacts. This part is fastened with a lock. To install the mounting pad, different places can be selected:

• the edge of grips is usually chosen by avid gadget fans, with this arrangement the user gets a lot of advantages;
• the center of the steering wheel is the most common option that most cyclists choose;
• the removal of the bicycle steering wheel is more suitable for large-sized devices.

To fix the mounting pad, harnesses are used that need to be tightened and reinforced with substrates.

Mounting a magnet and a sensor requires the location of these parts at least 8 cm from the wheel axis. This work requires caution. Harnesses are also used to fix the sensor, and the reed switch must be placed perpendicular to the axis of the magnet. The magnet itself is mounted on a spoke near the reed switch (the distance cannot be more than 2 mm). The magnet must also be tightened.

Wire Location - The complex process that takes the most time. Here you can use one of two ways:

• if you place the wire on the brake cable, then ordinary tape is used to fasten it;
• When laying the cable along the steering column, it is necessary to use harnesses, and in the area of ​​the frame, make an inlet.

A lot of manufacturers are engaged in the production of speedometers for bicycles. Which company to give preference to and which model to choose? - age-old questions for cyclists. Our review will help you understand the existing assortment.

• Among all manufacturers that manufacture bicycle speedometers, the company is in the first place Sigma. No one will argue with this. The assortment is divided into several categories that are designed for different levels of the user, his requirements and financial capabilities. These gadgets are created in Germany, which already determines their high quality. The cost is appropriate, but these devices will serve without fail for many years.

• Company Garmin not inferior to the previous manufacturer, offering cyclists quality and multifunctional devices. Similar devices are made in America, they are expensive, but they last almost forever. The range is so rich that it will not be difficult to choose a suitable model for a bicycle with alloy wheels.

• Ciclo - Another worthy manufacturer, which is located in Germany. Despite the high quality, excellent reliability and wide functionality, the company offers many affordable models. Ciclo bike speedometers are becoming the choice of many users with different levels.

• Although Chinese manufacturers need to be cautious, decent trademarks are also found here. For example, products from the company LIXADA has established itself on the positive side. A wide assortment of devices for every taste and financial opportunities. For 900 rubles, you can pick up a decent speedometer with backlight, calorie counter, high moisture protection and other useful functions.

About what cycle computers are and how to choose them, see the next video.